Location: Off Route 17 on the Gloucester side of the Coleman Bridge, next to the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. 804-642-9474, gloucesterva.info.

Hampton

Buckroe Beach and Park. North First Street

An extensive beach, Buckroe was once a boardwalk amusement park. Today it has open, grassy areas with shops and restaurants nearby. Kayaks and paddleboats are available for rental. A small amphitheater and two picnic shelters are available for rent. No dogs allowed on the beach from May 15-Sept. 15.

Fort Monroe. The closing of Fort Monroe as a military base has opened up areas of Chesapeake Bay beachfront to public access. The city now operates a small stretch of beach near the former community center. There's a large parking lot with free parking